HUNDREDS of youngsters could be set for stardom as part of a £100,000 project to bring a slice of Hollywood to Harwich.

The London Bus Theatre Company has received funding from the Arts Council and the Essex Police and Crime Commissioner to work with young people in the town over the next two years.

The company’s project will include a free monthly drama club, drama workshops in schools across the area, arts awards and filming days for upcoming feature film Angels vs Bullies 2.

More than 100 young people have already registered to take part in the project, with filming set to take place on location at Harwich and Dovercourt High School and around the town.

Pupils will be out on the streets this weekend leafleting as many households as possible in a bid to ensure every youngster in town is aware of the opportunity.

Project manager Katherine Austen said: “It is fantastic news we have been funded long term to work with young people in Harwich.

“The project will provide a fantastic range of employment opportunities as well as boost confidence.

“We have already had over 100 young people register on the project.

“Filming will be at a mixture of locations, some at the school and some around Harwich.

“Harwich has so many beautiful locations, we will be spoilt for choice.”

Children between the age of 11 and 18 are eligible to take part.

The theatre company produced their first film, Angels vs Bullies, with 300 young people from Essex in2014.

The film was signed by Cineworld and received strong reviews for its anti-bullying message, including three stars from Total Film.

Sarah Jane Parker, head of performing arts at Harwich and Dovercourt High School, welcomed the opportunity.

“The students have been excited about the launch of the London Bus Theatre Company’s latest feature film here in Harwich,” she said.

“This has created a fantastic platform to celebrate the talents of and to challenge our students, many of whom have auditioned for the new feature film.

“Projects like these are rare in this part of Essex.

She added: “It is really encouraging to see writer and director Chris Turner investing in our town and sharing a wealth of industry experience with our young people.

“Being part of this project will help our students to become more confident, aspirational and in all aspects of their lives, while building on their every day school learning which challenges students to make meaning of their world through drama.”

To get involved, contact Katherine Austen on 01208 814514, 07831 514811 or email kathy@londonbustheatre.co.uk.